The Influence of Local Wisdom on the Actualisation of Educative, Scientific and Religious Behaviour on anAcademic Environment in a University

Abstract

This paper examines the influence of local wisdom on academic environment in an Institution of higher education. The Sundanese values have been used as a case in point to examine how culture, scientific and religious values can influence educationwithin an academic society. In Sundanese culture, we find patterned intellectual and moral creativity which contains a system ofmoral values and norms as a form of etiquette, which are interrelated and adhere to tried and tested values, considered worthy, valuable and important and can function as a guide within an academic environment. In regard to this view, the present research attempts to establish: the values of Sundanese local wisdom believed-in and professed by Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia’s academic society, in specific by the heads of study programmes and departments; the key values ofscientific, educative and religious behaviour actualised in UPI academic society; and the strengths and weaknesses of key Sundanese local values whichinfluence the level of actualisation of scientific, educative and religious behaviour of Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia. In conclusion, this study has established that Sundanese local valuesembraced by Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia’s academic environment are characterised by nine indicators, which aremodeling, caring, discussion, providing guidance, putting the public interest first, gentleness, prioritising dialogue, friendliness and lovingness. Empirically, as a theoritical construct, actualisation of scientific behaviour by Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia’s academic environment is characterised by five indicators, which are flexibilityand openness to scientific ideas, critical questioning, environmental sensitivity, curiosity and understanding and searching for evidence before accepting statements.